SEPTA seeks public input on capital budget, program

The Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) is soliciting through May 2 public comments on its fiscal-year 2015 capital budget and the fiscal years 2015-26 capital program.

SEPTA's capital budget funds initiatives such as infrastructure improvements and the purchase of new bus and rail vehicles. The $571.8 million FY2015 proposal represents a significant increase over recent years as a result of Act 89, which provides a dedicated, long-term funding solution for transportation infrastructure investments in Pennsylvania, SEPTA officials said in a press release.

Approved late last year by the Pennsylvania General Assembly and Gov. Tom Corbett, Act 89 will allow SEPTA to launch its "Catching Up" program, which includes work on critical infrastructure such as power substations, bridges, track, maintenance facilities and passenger stations. In addition, SEPTA would initiate the process for replacing trolleys and Regional Rail cars that are well past their useful service lives, while also expanding capacity to address ridership growth and improving accessibility.

SEPTA is holding two public hearings on the capital budget and program today, and will accept written public comments through May 2. An independent hearing examiner will review testimony and submit a recommendation prior to the SEPTA board's vote on the proposal, which is expected at its regular monthly meeting on May 22.

The budget reports can be read via this link.